Accra, Ghana – President John Dramani Mahama has paid a heartfelt tribute to Ghana’s late President, Professor John Evans Atta Mills, describing him as a mentor, friend and a leader whose legacy of integrity, humility and principled leadership continues to inspire the nation.
In a Facebook post marking the 14th anniversary of Professor Mills’ passing, President Mahama reflected on a visit to Asomdwee Park, the final resting place of the late former President.
According to President Mahama, while Ghana lost a President 14 years ago, he personally lost “a mentor and a friend.”
He said standing once again at the graveside of the late President reminded him that what truly endures is not the office one holds, but the values and character one leaves behind.
Describing the late President as “gentle, principled and unshaken in his convictions,” President Mahama noted that Professor Mills remained steadfast even in the face of intense political pressure.
He further stated that the former President demonstrated that kindness should never be mistaken for weakness and that decency and effective leadership can coexist.
“In a time when our politics can feel divided and impatient, his life is a quiet but powerful lesson,” President Mahama wrote.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to emulating the leadership style of the late Professor Mills by governing with integrity and treating public office as a sacred trust.
Professor John Evans Atta Mills, Ghana’s third President under the Fourth Republic, died in office on July 24, 2012, becoming the first sitting Ghanaian President to pass away while serving. He is widely remembered for his emphasis on peace, humility, respect for democratic governance and national unity.